Computed Tomography (CT) scanners are devices used in the field of Computed Tomography allowing medical experts to create medical images. CT scanners, also known as Computer Aided Tomography (CAT) scanners, use the traditional idea of x-rays but takes it to a new level: it uses computers to generate three-dimensional images of the insides of an object based upon a large series of two-dimensional images x-ray images taken around a single axis of rotation.
How It Works
CT scanners work based on the existing x-ray technology, where x-rays are fired form an emitter and passes through the object. Depending on the density of the material it passes through, the strength of the ray may change. The different strengths of rays are recorded by a receiver and an image is generated from it. CT scanners build on this by firing multiple beams from multiple angles simultaneously. This allows the computer to generate a three-dimensional image of the object using all the scans made (by the x-rays) as a basis for the model.
Applications
CT scanners are largely used by doctors and other medical experts to quickly identify illnesses, cancers, bone fractures and other such diseases. The images produced from the scans can be used to generate 3D models of the body, allowing doctors to study the body and conditions before operating. These models are also very useful for identifying tumors and similar symptoms.
Aside from medical uses, CT scanners are also used in virtual imaging, simulations and modeling, as it allows very detailed 3D models to be created of any object that fits inside the ring.
Table of Contents
How It Works
Applications
CT scanners are largely used by doctors and other medical experts to quickly identify illnesses, cancers, bone fractures and other such diseases. The images produced from the scans can be used to generate 3D models of the body, allowing doctors to study the body and conditions before operating. These models are also very useful for identifying tumors and similar symptoms.Aside from medical uses, CT scanners are also used in virtual imaging, simulations and modeling, as it allows very detailed 3D models to be created of any object that fits inside the ring.
Further Reading
Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/X-ray_computed_tomographyHowStuffWorks: http://health.howstuffworks.com/cat-scan.htm